Second Annual Taco Festival Draws Thousands to Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo — Thousands of local families and tourists flocked to Plaza 28 de Julio over the weekend for the second annual Taco Festival, which municipal officials declared a major success for the popular resort destination.

The two-day event featured more than 50 vendors offering everything from traditional tacos al pastor, suadero, barbacoa, birria, and carnitas to innovative gourmet creations, with a special focus this year on Yucatecan cuisine. A culinary competition awarded cash prizes to the top three vendors based on flavor, presentation, creativity, and ingredient quality.

Ivan Perea of “Los Pinshis Tacos” took first place, followed by Walter Godoy of “The Lost Tiki” in second, and Isa Nami of “Antojitos Veracruzanos” in third.

“We had excellent presentations, high-quality dishes, and very creative proposals,” said David Hernandez, a member of the organizing committee. “This festival demonstrates the culinary talent that exists in Playa del Carmen.”

Estefania Hernandez, Secretary of Economic Development and Investment Attraction, highlighted the festival’s impact. “The beauty of this festival is that it offers more than 50 types of tacos in one place. It’s not just a culinary showcase from different parts of the country—this year, Yucatan especially shared its culinary richness with us.”

The winners will be invited to join the “Taco Route” initiative, developed in coordination with the Tourism Secretariat, aimed at promoting local consumption year-round.

Beyond the food, the festival featured artistic performances, dance shows, and live music that created a festive atmosphere in the city center. Local deputy Maria Jose Osorio attended the closing ceremony, noting that such events strengthen the local economy, support entrepreneurship, and solidify Playa del Carmen’s reputation as a destination celebrating Mexico’s culinary diversity.